MS HB438

Amends Section 71-5-503 to require annual increases to individual weekly unemployment benefit amounts equal to the U.S. inflation rate for the previous calendar year, as certified by the Mississippi Department of Employment Security.

Defines the inflation rate using the Consumer Price Index for urban consumers as calculated by the U.S. Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Maintains existing maximum weekly benefit limits of $210.00 (for benefit years beginning on or after July 1, 2002), $230.00 (for July 1, 2008 and after), and $235.00 (for July 1, 2009 and after).

Brings forward Section 71-5-505 regarding eligibility for unemployment benefits and the one-week waiting period for potential amendment.

Takes effect July 1, 2019.